A Christian Response to Rebellion

Our Wednesday Evening Bible Teacher -- Hubert Cochran

In our Bible Study tonight Hubert dealt directly with the question, "How do we respond to a Christian friend in rebellion? The goal tonight was to give some practical direction for responding to those who are rebelling against God.

First, he said that we must confront rebellion directly with God's Word, and that if at all possible we should confront that one who is in rebellion privately, one on one. In Galatians 2:11-13 notice how Paus deals with Peter.

When Peter came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he was clearly in the wrong. Before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself from the Gentiles because he was afraid of those who belonged to the circumcision group. The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray.

Secondly We should avoid embarrassment. In Galatians 6:1 Paul writes: Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted..

Thirdly, we should allow time for response, time for prayer. Let the Holy Spirit lead you in prayer for them. Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
A key word here is the word, "alert" here in the NIV. Another translation uses the word "watching." It can even mean to be sleepless. We need to watch and pray.

Fourthly, you might not win your brother or sister immediately, therefore use wisdom, and love. In James 5:19-20 we read:
My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins. Patiently encouraging your brother in Christ is worth the effort. With wisdom and love you can hope to eventually restore them.

Hey if you've been living your own way instead of God's, Yes, I mean if you've been in rebellion, don't run from God. Run to him. He wants you to be restored.

Blessings
Pastor Dan